God wants to bless us. He, however, insists that as Creator and LORD, He get the honor and glory. He wants us to be grateful for His love and grace, and gifts He endows us with. His adversary, the devil, lives to usurp God’s authority and steal His glory. He does this by causing us to, likewise, fall under his judgment and be disqualified from receiving God’s real promotion.
“For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another” (Psalm 75:6-7).
RELEVANCE
God loves to bring us from the tale to the head. He insists it be His way, though. Years ago I worked in a position and at first, failed miserably. So I was put on probation. Two years later my performance brought me to the top spot. I tried to resist allowing pride to rise up in me, and probably did a good job disguising it; but inside I knew I felt proud. Guess what? My performance slid and our finances suffered. Humility brought me to repentance. God thereafter promoted me to a national position. The lesson learned: humble yourself so God can lift you up.
“So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith” (1 Peter 5:6-8 NLT).
REFLECT AND RELATE
As you seek advancement, check your heart and motives. Ask God to reveal truth to you. This process will take time as God will allow you to test yourself and be purified.
REFERENCES
Psalm 18:20-36